Museum culture in Austin, Texas!

6th Street

Why Visit?

Welcome to your curated Sixth Street Museum Tour, a cultural odyssey nestled in the heart of the city, brimming with art, history, and unique tales.

Morning: Start at the Sixth Street Museum of Modern Art

Begin your day at the Sixth Street Museum of Modern Art, a beacon of contemporary creativity. Open from 10 am, it"s easily accessible by subway or bus, alighting at Sixth Street Station. Immerse yourself in cutting-edge exhibitions showcasing both celebrated and emerging artists. Don"t miss the interactive media gallery - a visitor favorite. Spend a leisurely 2 hours here, and maybe grab a coffee in the museum café, adorned with local art.

Midday: Stroll to the Sixth Street Historical Museum

Just a 10-minute walk from your morning stop, visit the Sixth Street Historical Museum. Opening its doors at 11 am, this gem provides a deep dive into the area"s rich past. The building itself, a restored 19th-century mansion, is as much an exhibit as the artifacts housed within. Explore the meticulously preserved rooms and the special exhibition on the city’s industrial age, which literally shaped the streets around you.

Afternoon: Literary Delights at the Sixth Street Writers" House

After a quick lunch at a nearby bistro, head over to the Sixth Street Writers" House, about 15 minutes by foot towards the east. The Writers" House is not only a museum but also a vibrant literary hub. It celebrates the literary greats who once walked these streets. Participate in a short writing workshop or attend a reading session, usually starting around 2 pm.

Late Afternoon: Reflect at the Sixth Street Art Gallery

Conclude your tour with a visit to the Sixth Street Art Gallery. A short bus ride will drop you off right in front. Known for its eclectic collection ranging from classical to avant-garde, the gallery also offers breathtaking views of the city skyline from its rooftop terrace. Spend an hour here reflecting on the artistic expressions that span genres and generations.

This Sixth Street Museum Tour will leave you enriched and inspired, weaving through the city’s cultural tapestry with each step.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Driskill Hotel (The Driskill)

Why Visit?

Embark on a cultured exploration of Austin"s historic gem, the Driskill Hotel, an emblem of Texan hospitality fused with Victorian elegance. Established in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, this opulent hotel not only offers a luxurious stay but also a deep dive into the art and history of the Old West.

Starting Your Tour

Begin your museum culture tour by entering through the grand, column-flanked doors on 6th Street, in the heart of downtown Austin. Easily accessible, you can reach the Driskell by public transit (MetroBus or MetroRail), by car, or on foot if you"re staying in the vicinity.

Exploring the Driskill

Step into the opulent lobby adorned with marble floors and a stained-glass dome, where portraits of past Texan dignitaries set a historical premise. Each hallway and room tells stories through its architecture and carefully curated art pieces, reflecting the grandeur of past epochs.

Not-to-Miss Highlights

- The Driskill Bar: Sip on a craft cocktail amidst a décor of classic Texan artifacts and plush leather seating. This bar is not just a place for a drink but a living gallery of Western aesthetic.

- The Heritage Suite: Housing memorabilia and portraits from the 19th century, this suite offers a glimpse into the Driskill’s storied past.

- Art Tours: Available upon request, these guided tours delve into the narratives behind the hotel"s extensive art collection, including works from the Civil War era.

Engaging Activities

Participate in the hotel"s periodic historical tours, which illuminate hidden tales of famous personalities who"ve walked these corridors, from President Lyndon B. Johnson to numerous visiting celebrities.

Wrapping Up

Conclude your visit with a stroll through the magnificent Victorian ballroom, imagining the grand events and gatherings it has hosted over the centuries. Before leaving, don’t forget to visit the hotel"s bakery for a Texas-sized pecan cookie, a sweet end to a rich cultural journey.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Lady Bird Lake

Why Visit?

Discover the cultural treasures around Lady Bird Lake with this curated museum tour that promises a deep dive into art, history, and nature. Start your journey at the Bullock Texas State History Museum, a short walk from the Capitol. Open every day except major holidays, you can explore three floors of interactive exhibits showcasing the story of Texas. Arrive early to enjoy a quiet stroll through the museum’s vast collections.

Next, hop on a CapMetro bus towards the University of Texas campus to visit the Blanton Museum of Art. Here, marvel at one of the foremost collections of contemporary American art and the largest public collection in Central Texas. Not to be missed is Ellsworth Kelly"s "Austin," a stunning stone building with colored glass windows that is a work of art itself.

After immersing yourself in modern art, take a leisurely walk through the university grounds to the Texas Memorial Museum. This natural history museum offers fascinating insights into Texas wildlife, dinosaurs, and gems.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the nearby Waterloo Park, where you can relax by the Waller Creek and recharge.

In the afternoon, take a short ride on the bus back towards the lake to the Mexic-Arte Museum in downtown Austin. Established in 1984, this museum is dedicated to traditional and contemporary Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture. Engage with thought-proving exhibitions and perhaps participate in a workshop if your visit coincides with one of their vibrant cultural events.

End your day with a peaceful walk or a paddle on Lady Bird Lake, reflecting on the rich cultural experiences of the day. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to view the city from a unique vantage point on the water, making for a perfect conclusion to your museum tour.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Barton Springs

Why Visit?

Discover the Cultural Treasures of Barton Springs, Austin

Embark on a fascinating museum journey around the picturesque Barton Springs area, nestled in the heart of Austin. This cultural itinerary ensures a deep dive into history, art, and nature, making for a truly enriching experience.

Morning: Start at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum

Begin your day with a tranquil visit to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, located just north of Barton Springs Pool. Easily accessible by bus (Route 30) from downtown Austin, this museum showcases the dynamic sculptures and drawings of Charles Umlauf, a prominent 20th-century American sculptor. The garden blends art with nature, offering a serene setting to appreciate Umlauf"s work against the backdrop of lush greenery.

Lunch Break: Picnic at Zilker Metropolitan Park

After exploring the sculpture garden, take a short walk to Zilker Metropolitan Park. Grab a bite from one of the local eateries nearby and enjoy a picnic with views of the Austin skyline. Zilker Park isn’t just a great relaxation spot but also plays host to various cultural and music festivals throughout the year.

Afternoon: Explore the History of Swimming at Barton Springs Pool

Post-lunch, head to the Barton Springs Pool, located within Zilker Park. Delve into the history of this iconic swimming hole through the educational exhibit at the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center, positioned at the north entrance of the pool. Learn about the natural spring’s ecological and cultural significance to the area, including its role in the lives of Native American tribes and early settlers.

Evening Wrap-up

Conclude your cultural escapade by strolling around the park or taking a dip in the spring-fed waters of Barton Springs Pool. The pool maintains a refreshing temperature of about 68-70 degrees year-round, perfect for unwinding after a day full of exploration.

This Barton Springs museum tour offers a blend of art, history, and nature, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage of Austin.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

LBJ Presidential Library

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through American history at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum, situated on the University of Texas at Austin campus. This iconic institution not only serves as a tribute to the 36th President of the United States but also as a vibrant center of education and culture.

Getting There

The LBJ Presidential Library is located at 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX. Visitors can easily reach the museum by car, with ample parking available on site for a small fee. For those preferring public transport, several bus routes directly serve the university area.

Start Your Tour

Begin your day by stepping into the visually striking building, designed by renowned architect Gordon Bunshaft. As you enter, you"ll be greeted by an impressive 10-story atrium, where the walls are lined with four million pages of documents from LBJ"s administration.

Main Exhibits

Explore the permanent exhibits, which include a replica of LBJ"s Oval Office, providing insight into his daily presidential life. Don’t miss the interactive displays about significant laws signed during his tenure like the Civil Rights Act and Medicare. Each exhibit is a testament to the tumultuous and transformative years of his presidency during the 1960s.

Engaging Activities

For a deeper understanding, attend a public lecture or educational program frequently held here. These sessions provide fascinating insights into LBJ"s impact on modern American society and his visionary Great Society programs.

Special Exhibits and Archives

Check out the temporary exhibits, which often focus on social justice and political issues, reflecting LBJ"s legacy. Before concluding your tour, visit the extensive archives for a rare glimpse at historical documents, personal correspondence, and unique artifacts from the Johnson administration.

Plan Your Visit

The library is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, except for major holidays. Admission fees are modest, with discounts for seniors, military, and students.

End your visit enriched with a deeper appreciation of one of the most pivotal eras in American history, brought to life at the LBJ Presidential Library.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.